Comparison
Carbetocin vs. Octreotide
Two peptides side-by-side — identity, evidence base, legal status and known adverse events.
Identity
Category
Research other
Research other
CAS no.
37025-55-1
83150-76-9
Molecular weight
no data
1019.24 g/mol
Half-life
0.67 h
1.7 h
Sequence
no data
D-Phe-Cys-Phe-D-Trp-Lys-Thr-Cys-Thr(ol)Mechanism of action
Carbetocin
Carbetocin is an oxytocin receptor agonist with prolonged duration. It triggers a sustained contraction of the uterus after birth, preventing atonic hemorrhage — unlike oxytocin, without a multi-hour infusion.
Octreotide
Octreotide is a cyclic octapeptide that selectively binds somatostatin-receptor subtypes SSTR2 and SSTR5. Via G-protein-coupled signalling, adenylyl cyclase is inhibited, reducing the secretion of multiple hormones (growth hormone, IGF-1, glucagon, insulin, VIP, serotonin). Structural stabilisation via a disulfide bridge and D-amino acids extends the half-life relative to natural somatostatin (minutes to several hours).
Evidence base
Highest evidence
Human RCT
Human RCT
Studies
1
5
of which in humans
1
4
Effects recorded
2
3
Open conflicts
0
1
Documented adverse events
1
2
Legal status
Full entries
Frequently asked questions
- What is the difference between Carbetocin and Octreotide?
- Carbetocin is classified as "Research other", while Octreotide is classified as "Research other". Carbetocin: Carbetocin is a long-acting synthetic oxytocin analog (half-life ~40 minutes). It prevents postpartum hemorrhage as a single injection. Approved in Canada and the UK among others, NOT in the US. Octreotide: Synthetic octapeptide somatostatin analog with a longer half-life than endogenous somatostatin. FDA- and EMA-approved since the 1980s for acromegaly and neuroendocrine tumours. This page contrasts both neutrally and source-based — with no usage or dosing recommendation.
- Which peptide is better supported by science, Carbetocin or Octreotide?
- The highest available evidence level is "Human RCT" for Carbetocin and "Human RCT" for Octreotide. A higher evidence level means more robust data, but says nothing about suitability for an individual. The full body of evidence is on each peptide's own page.
- What is the legal status of Carbetocin and Octreotide in Germany and the United States?
- Germany: Carbetocin — Prescription, Octreotide — Prescription. United States: Carbetocin — Unapproved, Octreotide — Prescription. These are factual summaries with source and review date on the individual pages.